From the Louise Bridge to local picnics
Hi neighbours,
Here’s a few highlights of what I’ve been doing beyond door-knocking:
Fighting for a New Louise Bridge
- I spoke at the East Kildonan-Transcona Community Committee about the urgent need for a new Louise Bridge. Councillor Wyatt introduced a motion to bring full replacement back to the table. This isn’t just about traffic; it’s about a reliable future for transit and active transportation. The motion heads to Public Works tomorrow (Thursday, Sept 11) morning. I’ll be there to continue to advocate for a new bridge.
Standing with Firefighters and the Residents They Serve
- I met with the United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg (IAFF Local 867) to hear what’s happening on the ground. The message was clear: call volumes and expectations are stretching people and equipment to a breaking point. I’ll be outlining specific steps (including staffing, prevention, and bringing back the arson strike force) in a separate post.
Connecting with Community
- A great conversation with a former Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre manager and a neighbour with lived experience in Housing First. Winnipeg helped pioneer this approach; we should build on what has already worked here.
- GeNAevents were a highlight; movie night and Picnic in the Park reminded me why Elmwood-EK is special: neighbours being neighbourly.
- I’m adding my voice to the Winnipeg Humane Society call to end breed-specific legislation. Good policy should be evidence-based, not knee-jerk.
What’s Next
- Website Updates: the donation page is now live, as is the ability to request a yard sign (thank you in advance!). More policy details to be added soon.
- Public Works Committee (Thu, Sept 11, 9:30 a.m.): I’ll advocate again for a full Louise Bridge replacement and support 90-minute Transit transfers – a small step on the long road ahead to getting a public transit system that works for everyone.
- Planning Property and Development (PPD) Committee: Friday’s meeting covers a lot of topics: supportive housing, cracking down on vacant buildings, the Portage & Main concourse, the long-requested Glenelm and Chalmers Area plan, the acquisition of 241 and 243 Henderson to see through on Councillor Schreyer’s vision for the area.
- See You Soon: Our team will continue visiting the 20,000+ doors in Elmwood-EK and meeting with local groups and organizations in the weeks ahead.
Thank you for the conversations, ideas, and tough questions. It’s clear that people in Elmwood-East Kildonan care deeply about our neighbourhoods and I’m committed to bringing that energy to City Hall.
Talk soon,
Kyle